This magnificent pigeon has continued to feed on the bright red fruit of the Vitex lignum-vitae trees. It wasn’t until I took this photo that I realised just how laden with fruit these trees are this year. Even though there are lots of fruit on the ground, the ones in the tops of the trees are not readily visible with the naked eye from the ground. These trees are also regularly visited by flocks of fig birds feasting on the fruit. About a dozen Vitex lignum-vitae seedlings have appeared in the cleared areas around these trees.

One of the benefits of having the birdbath is that it acts as a focus for many of the birds in the reserve. Very late one afternoon, when it was almost dark, we spotted this bird waiting to get a drink. It was really too dark to see it properly but it was so determined to get a drink that I was able to go home for my camera while my sister watched it. From the photo it can be identified as a juvenile Rose-crowned Fruit-dove. This is quite exciting as it hasn’t been seen in the reserve before. As soon as we left the area the Fruit- dove went straight down to the birdbath to get the drink for which it had waited so patiently.

Volunteer

The Fort Bushland Reserve Bush Care Group meets at the Picnic Ground on the first Sunday of every month from 8am to 10am.
The weekday weeders group meets every Thursday from 8am to 10am.
All are welcome.